Food in Poitou Charentes

Always head for the Regional sections in the supermarkets -where you will usually find the widest range of local produce. As you would expect in an area with such diverse agriculture there is a lot to choose from.

Cheeses - a fantastic area for Goat cheeses -from the mildest, freshest to robust aged types. Chabichou has an 'apellation controle' - it is king! Supermarkets and particularly Markets have wide ranges at very reasonable prices.

There are apple orchards all around us, with numerous varieties grown ( sadly no Cider ones though!) .The Reine des Reinettes apples are a very old and revered variety.The apple juice ( bottled) is excellent.

DO try the local Boulet Mussels which are small, sweet and extremely good value -perfect with Muscadet.

For the adventurous, there are eels from the nearby Marais Poitevin.

Chalons poultry products are highly recommended, and for Beef buy the local Parthenais in preference.

Seasonality is key in France -so take advantage of the quality of vegetables available - and don't expect Cauliflowers in June! ....But do enjoy the local Charantais Melons.There are numerous Markets in this area- we particularly enjoy the Tuesday one at Coulonges-sur-d'Autize. Look out for the Goats Cheese and Saucisson stands - and within the Market Hall ( not that dissimilar from the Pannier Markets in Devon) - the Bread,Meat,Fish and fantastic Vegetable stand. The knobbly Tomatoes are superb!

There are of course imported items - with a small range of British products in the local Intermarche.

Mussels
Moules

Reine des Reinettes

One of the Terraces